Question 1

Do I need a permit to build a fence in Grand Rapids?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Grand Rapids and Kent County regulations typically require a permit. We handle all the zoning paperwork for properties in the city and across West Michigan to ensure strict local compliance.

Question 2

What is the best type of fence for Michigan weather?

Accepted Answer

For Michigan's climate, vinyl and aluminum are top choices as they resist our harsh winters. Chain link is also highly durable. Wood is great for homes if properly maintained. However, vinyl fence can become very brittle in colder weather.

Question 3

How long does it take to install a new fence in Grand Rapids?

Accepted Answer

Most residential installations in Grand Rapids take 1 to 3 days. This depends on your yard size, the terrain, and the specific materials chosen.

Question 4

Do you install commercial fencing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide heavy-duty commercial fencing in Grand Rapids. We secure industrial sites and businesses near the city with high-security solutions.

Question 5

What is the best way to install a fence? Concrete footings vs "No Dig" fence installs

Accepted Answer

Each fence installation method has advantages and disadvantages. No-dig systems provide a fast, clean installation with no excavated soil left behind. However, gate posts should still be set in concrete and reinforced with an aluminum or steel stiffener measuring 5 by 5 inches and at least 8 feet long. This reinforcement prevents the vinyl post from flexing and gives the gate hardware a secure mounting surface, reducing the risk of the hardware tearing through the vinyl under the gate's weight. No-dig installation also presents potential challenges. If the installer encounters a rock or tree root that cannot be penetrated, the post may be installed too shallowly. There is also a risk of striking underground utility or sprinkler lines without immediately realizing it. Concrete-footing installation is a proven method that has been used successfully for nearly seven decades. Posts are securely anchored, and gates are attached to substantial steel or aluminum stiffeners for long-term strength and stability. The primary drawbacks are the additional installation time and the need to remove soil from each hole. Although utility or sprinkler lines may still be struck, the damage is usually noticed immediately and can be addressed before it causes a larger problem. Both methods can produce excellent results when installed correctly. No-dig systems are faster and can improve a company's efficiency and profitability, which is why they are likely to become increasingly common. Ultimately, neither method is inherently superior; the quality of the installation matters most. Make no mistake, "no dig" systems are designed to protect the profit of the fence company, and will likely be the method most fence companies use in the near future.

Question 6

How deep do you dig fence posts in West Michigan?

Accepted Answer

The majority of fence companies in West Michigan set their fence posts anywhere from 24-36 inches deep when setting in concrete. We generally stick to a 30 inch rule. When the frost line was determined for the State of Michigan building code, it was based on the entire state of Michigan, which would imply that the frost penetrates as deep in the Grand Rapids area as it does in Sault Ste. Marie or Iron Mountain — but this is not true. How do we know this? We have been digging holes by hand every winter for the last 68 years at Pro Fence Grand Rapids. We could not do this if the ground were frozen. In fact, in the last 10 years we have seen warmer ground temperatures in the winter than at any point in our company history, often not getting any significant snow until mid-January. Different soil types also make a difference. If your soil is composed largely of clay, it will not freeze as deep or as fast as sandy soil. Sand is made of imperfectly shaped crystals that allow water to become trapped between them, causing it to freeze deeper.